Canada is spending $72 million on satellites to improve wildfire monitoring. Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault addresses reporters in Montebello, Quebec, on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. The Canadian Press
Canada has announced a $72 million investment in a new satellite system designed to monitor wildfires across the country. The Canadian Space Agency revealed that the WildFireSat program will include seven satellites set to orbit the Earth by 2029. These satellites will collect daily data on wildfires, helping officials track fire behaviour, assess risks, and allocate firefighting resources more effectively.
Lisa Campbell, the president of the Canadian Space Agency, highlighted the significance of this project, stating, "A small number of fires are responsible for 90% of the damage." The ability to monitor fires from space will allow authorities to predict how fires will spread and respond more efficiently, potentially saving lives and reducing destruction.
Wildfires and Climate Change
The urgency of this initiative comes as Canada faces worsening wildfire seasons due to climate change. Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault pointed out the rising costs of climate-related disasters. "Fifteen years ago, the annual cost of climate change in Canada was around $200 million. In 2024, it was $8 billion, and it could reach $25 billion in the coming years," he said.
As wildfires become more intense and frequent, the government is looking for advanced solutions to mitigate damage. The satellites will be equipped with infrared sensors that will produce thermal images, allowing officials to measure the intensity of fires and track their movements.
A First-of-Its-Kind Mission
The WildFireSat project is the first of its kind in the world, with other countries already showing interest in Canada's initiative. The Ontario-based company Spire Global Canada has been selected to develop the satellite system.
Apart from tracking wildfires, the data collected will also support:
- The Canadian Air Quality Health Index
- Environmental emergency response
- Smoke forecast modelling
- Air quality health assessments
Campbell emphasized that the data will be openly available to all Canadians. She also noted that Canada’s fire seasons are becoming longer and more severe, making it impossible to rely solely on ground resources. "There will never be enough firefighters to manage these fires. This satellite system will ensure that resources are used effectively," she added.
Cost Savings and Future Impact
According to the space agency, the area affected by wildfires in Canada is expected to double in the coming decades due to rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather. The government anticipates that this satellite project will save between $1 billion and $5 billion within the first five years of operation by improving response times and reducing destruction.
The satellites will begin working three months after their 2029 launch, marking a major step in Canada’s efforts to tackle wildfires with advanced technology.
